Celebrating Our Roots This National Dairy Month
A Tribute to Lochmead Farms and Dairy
This June, as we celebrate National Dairy Month and honor the hardworking dairies that nourish our country, we’d be remiss not to shine a spotlight on our own family legacy — Lochmead Farms and Dairy.
Lochmead’s story began in the 1940s with our great-grandpa Howard, a man with a strong work ethic, a love for the land, and a deep respect for animals. His dedication laid the foundation for what would become a multigenerational family farm that has not only endured but thrived. Although the dairy farm was a happy accident, it’s become integral to our family’s history. In the late 1960s, Grandpa Buzz took the reins, stewarding the farm with the same values for over 40 years. Under his leadership, the dairy grew in size and reputation, becoming a fixture in our community.
Today, the tradition continues with Uncle Chris at the helm. For over a decade, Chris has honored the legacy of those before him while bringing new energy and innovation to Lochmead. One of the most exciting changes he’s made is the introduction of real-time data collection and analysis technology on the farm.
This advanced system tracks even the most subtle movements — including chewing cud and rumination patterns — for every individual cow. By constantly monitoring each animal, the program can instantly flag any irregular or abnormal behavior. That means if a cow’s numbers are off, Chris and his herdsmen are typically alerted 2–3 days before they might otherwise notice something was wrong just by observation alone.
Early detection leads to faster treatment, quicker recovery, and less stress for the cow, which translates to better overall health and comfort for the herd. Plus, if several cows suddenly change their behavior, it acts as an early warning system that there might be an issue with feed quality, environment, or another variable. With this data, Chris and the team can investigate and address issues quickly, keeping the herd and the farm running smoothly. The key to a successful dairy is happy and healthy cows, made easier with this analytic technology implemented by Chris.
Another major benefit? Reproductive health. The technology monitors each cow’s individual heat cycle and behavior, allowing Lochmead to pinpoint the optimal breeding window. This results in a more efficient, accurate, and effective breeding schedule, improving overall herd health and farm productivity.
At its core, Lochmead Farms has always been about family, care, and quality. From Howard’s vision to Chris’s tech-savvy leadership, each generation has brought something unique to the table. But the mission remains the same: producing wholesome dairy products with integrity, and taking care of the land and animals that make it all possible.
So this June, we raise a glass (of milk, of course!) to Lochmead Farms and Dairy — a family tradition, a modern marvel, and a true dairy legacy.
Learn more about Lochmead Farms and Dairy and its products here!